Youzi held that view, at least regarding the higher stages of moral progress. The theory that general or leaderly virtue grows by extension from filial piety is a specific version of a highly abstract or generic theory, that one’s moral progress consists in the extension of a pattern or patterns one already has. On the contrary: at least outside of 1.6, the Analects seems to show that Confucius did not have such a view. In an earlier posting, I argued that at least outside of 1.6, Confucius’ remarks in the Analects do not show him taking the family as the model for the state, nor taking filial piety or other family concerns as models for general virtue or of the virtue proper to governors. Nor was it intended to suggest such a view, if the design of the remark is any guide. The remark at 1.6 does not speak of extending one’s concern from few to many, from filial piety through elder-respect to caring for the masses. If you have strength remaining, study high culture and records.” Care broadly for the many, and associate closely with the virtuous. The Master said, “My lads: whenever you are home, be filial whenever you are out in public be humble toward your elders. Confucius did not in general envision moral progress as extension. I shall argue that the remark does not display such a view.
Confucius’ remark at Analects 1.6 is often cited to show that he thought proper moral development begins with filial piety and then extends that attitude to ever-larger groups of people (ever less intensely).
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